Beauty, durability and low maintenance have continued, over time, to inspire architects, contractors and builders to specify masonry in their projects. County Materials offers a wide selection of masonry products, such as County Stone Masonry Units shown.

April 4, 2016 7:00 AM CDT

Masonry: Timeless traditions, modern opportunities

One of the world’s oldest trades

Masonry – the art of building with brick, block and/or stone – is nearly as old as civilization itself. Today’s masons carry on a millennia-old tradition dating back to Neolithic times, when elaborate stone cairns began to appear in what is now France. These include northern Brittany’s Cairn of Barnenez, the oldest known building in the world. The ancient stone smiths who created these dry-built (mortarless) monuments utilized both stone megaliths (large stone slabs or boulders) and smaller stones to create grave mounds containing tombs and passageways. The complexity and magnitude of these ancient structures hints that these prehistoric masons were already drawing upon established traditions within the trade. Perhaps one day archaeologists will uncover structures older still.

Masonry Through the Ages

Many of the basic techniques and materials of the masonry trade remain essentially unchanged since ancient times. However, the trade has embraced advances in technology through the ages. Around 4,000 BC, the brick kiln was invented, along with improved methods for creating uniform bricks. Cast stone is thought to have been invented in the Middle Ages; however there is some evidence that a form of cast stone may have been used much earlier to build some of the Egyptian Pyramids.

The Industrial Revolution ushered in the modern era of masonry. At this time, brick manufacturing shifted from hand molding to mechanized production. Steam engines facilitated the quarrying and transportation of units in far greater quantities than previous generations ever dreamed possible. And the invention of concrete block made masonry construction more affordable, opening up new possibilities for architects and engineers alike.

Today, we are experiencing yet another explosion in masonry technology. Modern advances in materials science and advanced installation tools and methods are making masonry construction more versatile, beautiful, durable, and affordable than ever.

Masonry for Today’s World

Architects and designers from past ages had few alternatives to masonry. Today, there
are many, including steel, poured concrete, synthetic composites, timber and vinyl siding. Yet, the vast majority of new structures built today incorporate at least a few masonry elements. Why do so many modern designers choose masonry? There are as many answers to that question as there are designers, architects and engineers. Here are a few of the qualities that make masonry materials so desirable:

Beauty: It’s hard to beat the timeless appeal of masonry architectural elements. The addition of natural stone or a brick veneer to a residence improves the character of the home and will often raise its market value. In commercial, government and industrial buildings, masonry construction conveys a sense of dependability, trustworthiness, and prosperity, as well as being pleasing to the eye.

Masonry products are available in a palette of earth-tone colors, shapes, sizes, and finishes. From polished opulence to rustic charm, you are sure to find a masonry product that will enhance your project.

Durability: Imagine building a school with wood frame and vinyl siding. What do you think it would look like in 20 or 30 years? Most likely, it would be in need of major renovation. Masonry buildings, on the other hand, can be expected to last 80-100 years with minimal maintenance because they withstand high traffic areas. This is why contracts for federal, state, and local government buildings nearly always call for masonry construction.

Low Maintenance: Because masonry products are so durable, they require very little maintenance. For example, a properly constructed brick or concrete block exterior wall can be expected to last virtually maintenance-free for a minimum of 50 years. Tuck pointing of weathered mortar will then extend the life of the building for many more decades.

Sustainability: Masonry is one of the most sustainable building material choices available. Choosing masonry products – especially locally produced ones - will often assist in earning LEED credits. Masonry products also typically have a high thermal mass.

This superior heat storage ability is used to advantage in many of today’s innovative, energy efficient building designs.

Fire and wind resistance: Brick, stone, and concrete masonry products all are recognized as having excellent fire and wind resistance properties. They are often specified in projects where fire resistance is a concern making them a logical choice for multifamily living units, student housing, and hotels. A structure’s ability to continue standing and safely perform its intended function, even in a natural disaster or fire, makes masonry the obvious and safe choice as a building material.

Mold and pest resistance: Masonry products are generally inhospitable to mold and insects. They can be an excellent choice in areas where these problems are likely to occur, in combination with proper pest mitigation construction techniques.

Affordability: Standard concrete block is not the only affordable masonry option. Despite their high end appearance, other types of masonry products can be surprisingly affordable – especially when maintenance costs over time are factored in. While natural stone and clay brick are well-known for their beauty and durability, many people are surprised at the variety of equally attractive and cost-effective concrete masonry options available today. Many affordable concrete products offer beauty equal to natural stone and brick, along with improved durability and exceptional ease of installation.

The Masonry Trade Today

Masonry is an indispensable trade. Without working masons to construct important new buildings and perform needed repairs on existing structures, our economic system as we know it would grind to a halt.

These days, skilled masons are especially in demand. In the past few years, more qualified masons have retired than are entering the industry. This has resulted in a shortage of skilled brick and block layers and stone workers. While many in the construction industry are expressing concern at this state of affairs, the situation presents a golden opportunity for young people, returning veterans, and other individuals in search of a rewarding career.

An Excellent Career Opportunity

Even though masonry buildings are everywhere, masonry is not often mentioned to young people as a career option. More awareness is needed about the tremendous opportunities in the masonry trade. For those who enjoy working with their hands, take pride in creating something useful and beautiful, want to avoid hefty student debt, and would like to earn a respectable wage virtually right away, masonry can be an ideal career.

To get started in the masonry trade, a person need only attend a 1-2 year technical college masonry program. Generally, a new graduate will start out as a tender, assisting an experienced mason. Starting wages average around $30 -35,000 annually; however, opportunities for advancement are plentiful. A good mason can find himself earning $50-60,000 annually just a few years after entering the profession.

Students participating in the High School Masonry Program (HSMP) look on as an instructor teaches masonry installation techniques.

Supporting a Renaissance in Masonry

The past few years have witnessed a growing trend towards recognizing the masonry industry for its important role in society, and supporting it towards continued growth and excellence.

County Materials is proud to support the masonry industry and masonry education. By supporting the MTFW and sponsoring the BRICKLAYER 500, the High School Masonry Program, and similar regional and national events and programs, the company is helping to ensure that the masonry trade continues to thrive for many years to come.

About the Author

County Materials Corporation is the industry's resource for high quality concrete construction and landscape products.

This article was originally published in CONCRETEPerspectives. This content has been republished with the permission of County Materials Corporation.

The Mason Contractors Association of America (MCAA) is committed to preserving and promoting the masonry industry by providing continuing education, advocating fair codes and standards, fostering a safe work environment, recruiting future manpower, and marketing the benefits of masonry materials.